Album of the Week, 02-06-24
Ray Gallon – Grand Company
Cellar Music Group
Released November 17, 2023
Ray Gallon – piano
Ron Carter – bass
Lewis Nash – drums
NYC-native, pianist Ray Gallon has been a mainstay on the jazz scene for over thirty-five years. Rooted in bebop and blues, his expressive, swingin’ playing melds old and new into a fresh, original style.
This is my favorite kind of trio playing – the inimitable and distinctive personal and collective sound of Ray Gallon, Ron Carter and Lewis Nash has transparency and clarity, where every note and gesture mean something. Ray Gallon’s music is informed, passionate, and personal. He possesses a unique rhythmic imagination and a wrought iron vocabulary. Grand Company is a milestone.
Ray Gallon draws inspiration from the most vital players with the strongest imprint on the music’s history. With Gallon, everything is first rate, exemplified by his choice of musical partners for this beautiful recording. Lewis Nash’s touch, his sense of color, orchestration, and his effortless technical command, put him at the forefront of the world’s leading percussionists. Maestro Ron Carter is the premier bassist of our time. His innovations will inspire the future of the music.
I love the sophistication of this recording. Ray Gallon, Ron Carter and Lewis Nash are supreme musicians and Grand Company is a prize.
Bill Charlap
June 2023
New York, NY
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Each week, WDNA music director, Michael Valentine shares his album of the week. Michael’s picks often focus on new jazz releases, but sometimes dip into history with notable and classic releases worth revisiting.
